Flu Vaccine and Egg Allergy
September 17, 2021 11:54 am
Studies show that an egg allergy is no longer a reason to avoid the flu vaccine. Most egg allergic patients will also no longer need to receive their flu shot as a flu challenge protocol with testing. Guidelines have been recently updated from the following organizations::
American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)
The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology (AAAAI)
The American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology (ACAAI)
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
The CDC guidelines recommend:
Anyone who has only hives from egg can receive any licensed and recommended flu vaccine for their age and health status.
Anyone who has had a reaction to egg other than hives should get the flu shot in a medical facility from a health care provider who can recognize and treat a severe allergic reaction.
Anyone who has had a severe allergic reaction to the flu vaccine in the past should not get the flu vaccine.
Most patients who have received flu shots as a challenge in the past will no longer need to do so. If someone has had anaphylaxis to eggs or severe reaction, we can still arrange to do in our clinic, however, due to COVID, AAIR will no longer be carrying flu shots, or giving routinely. Patients who need to receive here can arrange to get a dose from their pharmacy or PCP and bring here. Everyone else can now follow the above guidelines, and likely be able receive at your PCP without needing to schedule a challenge!